From Russia With Hope – Richard Gyde

Position: Rider

Status: Married to Sarah

Age: 54

Job: Managing Director, Mila UK

About me: I work hard but I’m a great believer in the fact that you work best when you’re fit and motivated so I get down to the gym regularly and have weekly sessions with a personal trainer to push myself just that little bit harder. I enjoy being part of the GM Fundraising team and, having visited the Hope House Children’s Hospice in Oswestry in the past, I know just how important it is that we raise the funds they need to keep on doing their fantastic work.

Cycling experience – Veteran How many rides? My first serious ride was the Tower to Tower ride in 2006 but since then I’ve also completed the Ride across America, Rome to Home, Hope 66 and Border to Border. I try to keep training in between the big rides and this year I’ve had a go at a few Sportives, the most recent being London to Brighton in September which I hope will stand me in good stead for From Russia with Hope.

Motivation: Fear of failure. I wouldn’t say I’m competitive, but I definitely won’t be giving up. I have had a great time on all of the previous rides and the sense of satisfaction each time we’ve all made it over the finishing line will definitely be what keeps me going. Obviously, the biggest motivator is to raise as much money as possible for Hope House and, having given me fantastic support in the past, I hope my friends, colleagues and customers will back me again this time.

Fears: As above – fear of failure!

Expectations: 75-80 miles a day for 12 days – with endless hours of daylight apparently and much cooler temperatures than we endured on Border to Border.

Single biggest thing you’re looking forward to: I’m sure it will be quite something to ride inside the Arctic Circle while we’re in Finland.

Single biggest thing you’re dreading: Honestly, nothing. I won’t enjoy the time in the RV to and from drop off points, but I’m not dreading it!

Training plans: I go to a Trainer weekly at 7am every Tuesday and we’re currently focussing on legs and core. I have also invested in a BKOOL trainer, so I intend to put the miles in over the winter months.

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About the author

Susie Sinden (Susie Sinden)

PR and marketing specialists predominantly working in the window industry, Brouha is a lively, dynamic and fun agency that enjoys working with customers to deliver results and are thrilled to be working with GM Fundraising in raising vital funds for the children and families of Hope House.